Why Build-it-Yourself Garage Kits are a BAD Investment

If you’ve ever considered purchasing a “build-it-yourself” garage kit, you’ll want to think twice before you invest. While these DIY garage kits may seem like an economical way to build a detached storage structure, there are many drawbacks that can make them more trouble than they’re worth.

With over 20+ years of experience, the barn and garage building experts at J&N Structures are delivering the TRUTH about cheap garage kits including their costs, requirements, warranties and more.

Keep reading to learn more about common issues with build-it-yourself garage kits and stay tuned to discover the actual best way to build a garage affordably!

DIY Garage Kit Downsides

On the surface, DIY garage kits sound like a way to inexpensively erect a detached garage that is “good enough” for what you need. Time and time again though, we’ve seen build-it-yourself garage kits turn out to be a bad investment – for both financial and other reasons.

Ask your potential barn builder about the following:

1. Extremely Time Consuming – Build-it-yourself garage kits require hours upon hours of your time, from site preparation to assembly and finishing. If you have a full schedule, this project can quickly overwhelm you.

2. Require Special Tools & Skills – Building a DIY garage kit isn’t just hammer-and-nails work. You’ll often need specialized tools and know-how, which can mean additional rental or purchase costs on top of the kit price.

3. Shorter Lifespans – DIY kits are engineered for quick assembly rather than long-term durability. Over time, you may face material failures or structural issues that professionals know how to avoid.

4. Unexpected Costs – Most kits advertise a base price, but shipping, site prep, permits, and extra materials can add up fast, leaving you with a final bill far above your budget.

5. Limited Customizability – Prefabricated kits restrict you to the manufacturer’s standard options for siding, roof style, and interior features. If you want a truly custom design, you’re out of luck.

6. No Backed Warranty – Professional builders stand behind their work with insured warranties and service guarantees. DIY kits often come with minimal or no warranty, leaving you on the hook for repairs.

Is a Cheap Garage Kit Right for You?

If you’re unsure of whether a cheap garage kit is the right option for you, ask yourself the following questions:

• How much time do I realistically want to spend on this project?
• What does my budget allow for?
• How long do I want this garage to structurally last?
• Do I have construction experience that could help make this project a success?
• What is my history with DIY projects—do I finish on time and on budget, or do I tend to leave projects unfinished?

Your answers to these questions should help guide you to a decision of whether a cheap DIY garage kit or a professionally built modular garage would be the best choice for you – but ONLY if you answer them honestly!

For personalized assistance determining the differences between cheap garage kits vs custom built, contact our Amish garage contractors today or explore more articles on our blog.

What is the Best Way to Build a Garage Affordably?

At J&N Structures, we’re professional barn and garage builders with a network of dealers stretching all across the United States, east of the Mississippi. Since 1999, we’ve been proud to bring garages of all sizes and price points to property owners all over! Our signature detached garages are built modularly which means they are primarily constructed in our shop before being transported and finished on your land.

When you inquire with J&N Structures, you’ll receive a free style consultation and price estimate from a dealer near you! Enter your zip code now to get started. We look forward to helping you with the best way to build a garage!